© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Denarius - Commodus P M TR P VIIII IMP VI COS IIII P P
| Silver | 3 g | 17 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Commodus (Lucius Aurelius Commodus) (177-192) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 183-184 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#265259 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Modius containing seven grain stalks.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P VIIII IMP VI COS IIII P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate Nona, Imperator Sextum, Consul Quartum, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power for the ninth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the sixth time, consul for the fourth time, father of the nation.
Comment
Mass varies: 2.786–3.46 g;Example of this type:
American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Source:
Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a portrait of Emperor Commodus, who was known for his vanity and ego. In fact, he was so enamored with his own image that he had his face depicted on many of the coins minted during his reign, including this denarius. This coin, in particular, shows Commodus with a prominent beard, which was a departure from the clean-shaven look that was more common on Roman coins at the time. This beard was likely meant to symbolize his wisdom and maturity as a leader, but it has also been interpreted as a sign of his increasing megalomania. Despite his questionable leadership, Commodus' coinage remains a popular collector's item among numismatists today.
